Ten Questions in Ten Minutes: With Sebastian Herrmann

Sebastian Herrmann is Jet Park Hotel general manager and explains why business, tourism and hospitality are in his blood.   

Business to Business - What inspired you to join this business?
Sebastian Herrmann - I first started ‘hospitality’ when I was five years old. I remember pouring a whisky for my father, and decided I would garnish it with mint – much to his horror – we grew up around entertaining, large functions and hospitality. When the opportunity came up to join the family business and grow with it, I leaped on board. I’m passionate about people. I’m passionate about being a part of tourism in New Zealand and could see a great future for the business.

BtoB - Who has influenced you the most professionally?
SH - Many people have influenced me. I think there are some great leaders in our industry and my colleagues are a great influence. Our customers are by far my biggest influence in terms of need. Working with my brother and sister is fantastic too, the brutal honesty you gain from family can often offer a very clear and valuable perspective.

BtoB - How would you describe yourself as a businessperson?
SH - Passionate and committed to my team and to our business. I lead by example, and believe that people are the key to any business success. I am pragmatic in leadership, and caring and considerate of my team and for my guests. I like to see results, and am competitive.

BtoB - What do you consider your greatest achievement?
SH - I don’t have a single greatest achievement, but being involved in a family business for 13 years, in an incredibly competitive landscape as a standalone property against global brands, and coming out on top is pretty awesome.

BtoB - With hindsight, what is the one thing you would do differently?
SH - Hindsight is only useful to learn from the mistakes you have made. There is nothing I would change. Every lesson has taught me exactly what I have needed to move forward in business. I believe in looking forward with the benefit of the lessons from hindsight. Energy spent trying to change the past is wasted.